Calculating T1 in an Elastic Collision with Equal Masses

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves an elastic collision between two particles of equal rest mass, focusing on the kinetic energy before and after the collision. The original poster presents a specific equation to demonstrate and seeks to find the kinetic energy of one particle after the collision as a function of the scattering angle.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive a relationship involving kinetic energies and momenta, while some participants question the clarity of the approach and the next steps to take.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's attempts. There is an indication that further exploration of the problem is needed, and some guidance has been offered regarding the necessity of personal effort in solving the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster may need to clarify their understanding of the equations and concepts involved in elastic collisions, as well as the implications of the assumptions made in the problem statement.

SHawking01
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Homework Statement


A particle of rest mass m0 collides elastically with a stationary particle of equal mass and scatters at angle θ. The incident particle has kinetic energy T0 before the collision and T1 after the collision. (a) Show that T12 (2m0c 2 + T0) 2 = p02 p12 c4 cos2 θ. (b) Using the results of part (a) and problem 6, find T1 as a function of θ.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


p0+p1=p0'+p1'
 
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Can you make a better attempt at a solution?
 
What should I do after this? Sorry.
 
You need to make an effort to solve it yourself and see how far you get.
 
Okay, well I'll come back in a couple of hours or so. Thank you.
 

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